parhelic circle

noun

: a luminous circle or halo parallel to the horizon at the altitude of the sun

called also parhelic ring

Examples of parhelic circle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The glowing slash, known as a parhelic circle, often only shows up in segments, but sometimes can present as a full circle in the sky. Mika McKinnon, Smithsonian, 5 Feb. 2018

Word History

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of parhelic circle was in 1886

Dictionary Entries Near parhelic circle

Cite this Entry

“Parhelic circle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/parhelic%20circle. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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